Defending champion Kristoffer Broberg is hoping to shake off the rust as he makes his first DP World Tour start in eight weeks at the 2022 Dutch Open.
The Swede made just 11 appearances in three seasons as he was plagued by injuries between 2018 and 2020 and could not hold back the tears as he lifted the trophy at Bernardus Golf last September.
He withdrew from the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters in March and has had some hip issues but there was also joy behind his absence, as he took some time off due to becoming a father.
And while he admits to feeling rusty, the 35-year-old is delighted to be back on a happy hunting ground.
“It is always nice to come back to where you have played some good golf and have some good memories," he said.
“Of course it gave me confidence. I played really well at the end of last year and this year I have been struggling.
"I caught some injuries on my left hip again, but it is feeling better now, and I took eight weeks off because I have become a dad which is some positive news.
“I feel very rusty. I haven’t hit a shot for six weeks and I haven’t been on the course for eight weeks.
"The last round I had to withdraw from Qatar, so that was the last time I played some golf, but I am glad to be back and to see all of the boys again.
I have worked really hard this week so it feels a bit better than the start of the week so we will see
“I have worked really hard this week so it feels a bit better than the start of the week so we will see."
Broberg won at 23 under last season and is expecting a much tougher test this season, although he believes any hardship will only be felt on the course, with the facilities in Cromvoirt second to none.
“The course looks the same," he said. "It is in mint condition and I think it is going to be windier, so the scoring might not be that low this week.
"I like this type of course because it’s linksy, you have the amazing facilities in the short-game area and the driving range is perfect, and everything is good around the tournament. So looking forward to it.”
